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Posted on 9/17/2016 by Dr. Kelsey Ullsmith |
Exercise is important to your health. It is great for your heart, keeps your muscles strong and keeps excess weight off. Exercise can also be beneficial to your oral health too.Lowered Risk of Gum DiseaseGum disease is a devastating oral health problem. It starts with gingivitis, which affects only your gums. As it progresses, your teeth and even your jawbone can be affected. Bacteria gets below the gum line, causing infections. Once the infections enter your bone, they can get into your blood stream and spread throughout the body. As they travel, they can cause other significant health issues like heart disease and stroke. Studies have shown that people who are physically active are over fifty percent less likely to suffer from gum disease. Reduces Inflammation Regular exercise increases the body's inflammatory response, meaning that it can fight inflammation. Because of this, you are less likely to suffer from gum disease. Better Use of Nutrients Exercise aids in better digestion. Better digestion means that nutrients are more readily available and your body can more easily absorb them. Among these nutrients are those that are important to oral health, including calcium and phosphorous, which help build and maintain strong teeth. Better Circulation One of the touted benefits of exercise is that it improves circulation. Good circulation is just as important to your oral health as it is to your overall health. Blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body. They also carry the aforementioned nutrients to your gums and teeth. Prevents DiabetesDiabetes can have a detrimental effect on your oral health as well as the rest of your body. It can create dry mouth, which creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth. The saliva you do produce may contain higher levels of sugar, giving the bacteria more food to feed on. Exercise is beneficial to your whole body, including your mouth. Contact our office about setting up a routine that will work best for you. |